-By Elaine Collins, Clinical Director, Brain Training Australia

Neuroplasticity is the built-in ability of your brain to change. It is, by definition: ‘the ability of the brain to restructure its neural connections and form new ones at any given time.’ In more straightforward terms, it is:

the natural ability of the brain to change in response to new experiences and information.

We are all wired to change throughout our entire lifespan. 

If we all have a neuroplastic ability why would we want to work to increase our ability? For a number of reasons, including the following:

• The better your neuroplastic abilities the more resilient and adaptive you become as a person. If you have good neuroplasticity you will be better able to manage unexpected change, stressful events, challenging circumstances and you will be able to think on your feet a lot better. You are also likely to be much more solution focused rather than problem-oriented. 

• Improving neuroplasticity is a very effective way to mitigate the cognitive decline that is associated with aging. 

• Working on your neuroplasticity improves your general cognition, your ability to take in and retain new information and increase the dynamics of your thinking. Good neuroplasticity creates the space for a clear, focused and balanced mind. 

HOW TO IMPROVE NEUROPLASTICITY

Improving your neuroplastic ability can be achieved in much the same way as achieving a new level of physical fitness ie by training. Just as someone training to run a marathon relies on repetition supported by pushing new limits, increased neuroplasticity can be achieved through repetitive training supported by new information. 

EXERCISES TO IMPROVE NEUROPLASTICITY

Try a jigsaw puzzle to challenge your brain in a way that it may not have been challenged since you were a child. If possible set aside ‘puzzle time’ free of digital distractions and feel your brain start to organise and plan out the puzzle. This is a very good ‘neural stretch’. 

Step outside of your routine to challenge your brain. This can be as simple as walking a different way to your office that your normally would, or taking the stairs rather than the elevator or even ordering a menu item you have never tried. These little changes promote neural flexibility which helps build change resilience and adaptive thinking. 

Learn something completely new and unfamiliar to you. Some people like to take up a new language, others find the idea of learning a musical instrument appealing. Then again others like to pick up a good book or sit down to a documentary series on the television. Choose a method that suits you. The goal is not to make it difficult or laborious, it is to access and absorb new information.

NEUROFEEDBACK BRAIN TRAINING FOR NEUROPLASTICITY

Neurofeedback brain training with a non-linear neurofeedback system such as Neuroptimal is the ultimate brain training session. It is a non-invasive and holistic approach that balances the mind, the emotions and will significantly boost your neuroplastic capabilities. The system is very advanced and most people notice changes and improvements occur very quickly, often after just one session. After 10-15 sessions the majority of people notice significant and permanent reductions in stress, anxiety, depression, overthinking, constant thoughts and many other issues. In addition, clients tend to notice improved resilience, a greater sense of self, and an overall improvement in confidence. 

Improving neuroplasticity is a proactive approach to improving and maintaining your health and well-being throughout your lifetime. It keeps your mind nimble, flexible, ready for new information and it maintains and supports optimal mental health. 

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

The first step is to get in contact with us and if you haven’t done so already – book in for your First Appointment!

The team at Brain Training Australia™ recognise the unique qualities of all our clients and will work closely with you to personalise your Brain Training Program so that you can achieve your goals of optimal mental processes.

We look forward to helping you live a much richer, happier and healthier life, and to stop having a stressed, overwhelmed and busy brain.

Learn more – how we help you to self-regulate a stressed, overwhelmed and busy brain.